Guide to the Peak District

The Peak District offers a wonderful diversity to all its visitors; with its beautiful green rolling hills and moorlands, stunning national park, vibrant historical towns and caves for you to delve the depths of, it makes for a world away holiday.

A 7 day ITINERARY for the Peak District

There are so many things to experience on a trip to the Peak District that seven days may not be enough, however we have compiled the best of the best to ensure you make the most of your holiday.

A Walkers Paradise

A trip to the Peak District is not complete without putting on those hiking boots and heading for the muddy hills. With so many routes and guided walks in the area it can be hard to choose where to go first, High Tor, Giddy Edge and a Lovers Walk would most definitely be a good starting point. It is a linear walk taking you from Matlock to Matlock Bath via High tor, which will reward you with superb cliff-top views along the way.

With plenty of picnic sites along the way it would be rude not to take some provisions with you and take advantage of alfresco dining in such beautiful surroundings. After your walk you can treat yourself to a well-earned pint in The Fishpond – Matlock Bath.

Top 5 restaurants and pubs

Cake and Caves

Only on holiday can you get away with sweet treats for breakfast so why not make the most of it, at the Cupcake Café & Bakery you can do just that. If you rise early enough make your way over to this adorable venue situated in Leek to sample their American style pancakes with maple syrup and crispy bacon, washed down with a hot chocolate with cream and marshmallows – if you are feeling extra indulgent!

If you can muster up enough energy after then a visit to one of the many caves in the area would make for a pleasant day before leaving for home. Creswell Crags is a limestone gorge, honeycombed with caves and smaller fissures, you can embark on an inspiring tour and be transported back to the ice age with some fascinating stories and sights.

One for the thrill Seekers

With something for all ages, Peak Pursuits at Astbury Mere is a fun packed day for the whole family. For the braver amongst you, you can try your hand at abseiling or rock climbing, or if you are looking for a more relaxing experience you can have a go at canoeing or orienteering. You will certainly be inspired by the fun and dynamic challenges on offer in such beautiful surroundings.

Holidays are all about creating new memories and trying new things and Peak Pursuits could be the perfect opportunity for just that – you can learn some new skills to take back home and show off to the rest of the family. After a tiring day, you can stop by the Nobanno Lakeside Indian Restaurant, also in Astbury Mere to take away a delicious meal to have back at the comfort of your holiday cottage.

Top 5 walking and cycling routes

Bakewell Route

Castleton Route

Hartington Route

Monsal Trail

High Tor, Giddy Edge and a Lover’s Walk

A Family Day in the Heights of Abraham

Since first opening its gates to visitors in the 1780s the Heights of Abraham has become one of the Peak District's most popular destinations. Located in the heart of the Derbyshire Dales this estate is brimming with attractions, making it an unmissable family day out. If you are looking for a unique way to bask in the charm of the Peak District then this is the place for you.

There is so much on offer including cable car transportation, providing you with break-taking views of the Derwent Valley and cavern tours, taking you on a fascinating journey through the spectacular hillsides and caves. You won’t be far from refreshments either with two venues on site – Terrace café and the Vista Bar and restaurant. On your way out don’t forget to stop off in the gift shop to purchase those holiday souvenirs whilst the children are busy in the adventure playgrounds.

Top 5 parks and gardens

Retail Therapy

Nestled in the hills of Derbyshire is the small picturesque village of Rowsley, here you will find Peak Shopping Village holding many national name retailers such as The Gift Company, Pavers Shoes and Cotton Traders to name a few. The perfect chance to pick up those last minute holiday gifts for your loved ones and do some retail therapy for yourself. This shopping venue makes for an enjoyable day out when the weather isn’t on your side!

Why not take a break from all that shopping and enjoy a break at Massarella’s Restaurant on site to re-fuel. Light bites are available here throughout the day including freshly made meals so there will be something to suit everyone’s palette. For a more exciting journey there and back why not park your car off at Matlock Platform 2 and opt for the Peak Rail transport instead.

Perfect day for a stroll

After a busy week exploring the many attractions on offer in the Peak District a relaxing day appreciating the stunning surroundings whilst strolling through the many parks and gardens in the area can be a welcoming idea.

The Peak District is a literary landscape full of stately homes with beautiful adjoining gardens, the Pavilion Gardens are a good place to start. The gardens here are full of Victorian heritage and offers a real adventure. The natural landscape consists of various flowers and shrubbery, trees, streams and a lake, making it home to many natural inhabitants. Alongside the gardens you will also find play areas, a miniature train, a bandstand and a kiosk to keep you refreshed, as well as plenty of room to play some sports or simply relax and unwind.

After a peaceful day why not get dressed up and head out to The Packhorse Inn for a delicious dining experience.

Top 5 Caverns and caves

Step back in time

The Peak District is jam packed with chocolate-box villages for you to choose from, but a visit to Crich Tramway Village is a must during your stay in the area. This period style village makes for the perfect day out whilst giving you the opportunity to experience the local culture and olde-worlde charm.

Situated in the picturesque heart of Derbyshire, it really will make you feel like you have stepped back in time, with a traditional tea room, sweet shop, ice-cream parlour, gift shop, trams, museum, playground and woodland walk to name just a few things to do in the village you will certainly need to leave a day to appreciate everything on offer. The National Tramway Museum at Crich is definitely the focal point and something kids of all ages will love.